Fight begins to save libraries as council lets 'closure plan' slip

A row has erupted over proposals to shut a string of libraries after a report was accidentally released detailing the plans.

Greenwich council claims the document was intended purely for discussion. But opposition councillors and librarians are not convinced and warn it is only a matter of time before the axe falls.

The proposals, accidentally attached to a council agenda, suggest shutting four libraries - Charlton, Coldharbour, Ferrier and Abbey Wood - as well as the mobile and school library services.

East Greenwich and Woolwich libraries would be relocated to new sites. Slade and Plumstead libraries could also be affected.

Opposition councillor Dermot Poston said: "It's a stitch-up. The amount of detail in the report shows these decisions have already been taken. The people of Greenwich should be very worried."

Onay Kasab, local Unison branch secretary who led a demonstration by librarians at the town hall this week, said: "There will be outrage. The effects of these closures could be quite horrific on their communities."

Council leader Chris Roberts said there were no plans to shut libraries but admitted that council investment in three major library hubs in Eltham, Woolwich and Greenwich could eventually lead to changes.